Sleeping Sickness Commission

Sleeping Sickness Commission

Sir David Bruce, leader of the commission

The Sleeping Sickness Commission was a series of scientific expeditions and investigations conducted in the early 20th century to study and combat the sleeping sickness epidemic in Africa. This disease, also known as African trypanosomiasis, is caused by the Trypanosoma brucei parasite and transmitted by the tsetse fly. The commission was instrumental in advancing the understanding of the disease and developing strategies for its control.

Background

Sleeping sickness was a major public health issue in Africa, particularly in regions such as Uganda and the Congo Basin. The disease caused significant mortality and morbidity, affecting both humans and livestock. The British government, recognizing the severity of the epidemic, established the Sleeping Sickness Commission to investigate the disease and propose solutions.

Formation and Objectives

The commission was formed in the early 1900s, with the primary objective of identifying the cause of sleeping sickness and finding effective methods to control its spread. The commission was led by prominent scientists, including Sir David Bruce, who had previously discovered the causative agent of the disease.

Key Discoveries

Trypanosoma brucei, the causative agent of sleeping sickness

The commission made several key discoveries that were crucial in understanding sleeping sickness. They confirmed that the disease was caused by the Trypanosoma brucei parasite and that it was transmitted by the bite of the tsetse fly. This finding was pivotal in shifting the focus of control measures towards vector management.

Field Work and Challenges

The commission conducted extensive field work in affected regions, often under challenging conditions. They collected samples, conducted experiments, and interacted with local populations to gather data. The work was arduous and required navigating difficult terrain and dealing with the logistical challenges of working in remote areas.

Impact and Legacy

Members of the Sleeping Sickness Commission in Uganda, 1908

The findings of the Sleeping Sickness Commission had a profound impact on public health strategies in Africa. Their work laid the foundation for future research and control programs. The commission's emphasis on vector control and the development of diagnostic techniques were particularly influential in reducing the incidence of the disease.

Related Pages

• African trypanosomiasis
• David Bruce (microbiologist)
• Tsetse fly
• Trypanosoma brucei